Dean Koontz
Dean Koontz is one of the world’s biggest selling authors, with 14 #1 New York Times hardcover bestselling novels and 16 novels that have held the #1 position in paperback.
Judge Ed Kinkeade, National Board Member
Judge Ed Kinkeade was appointed to the federal bench of the Northern District of Texas in 2002 by President George W. Bush, where he still serves today. Previously, Judge Kinkeade served as a County District and Appellate Judge in Texas from 1981 to 2002.
Darcy Pecoraro, National Board Member
Darcy is a native Californian entrepreneur with over twenty-five years of experience in management, finance, and community volunteerism and advocacy. She is a passionate professional that brings a strong work ethic, kindness and humility, and a desire for positive impact through hard work, networking, and intellectual curiosity and growth.
Emily Williams, National Board Member
In 1989, National Board Member Emily Williams responded to an ad in a local newspaper to adopt a Canine Companions for Independence breeder dog. Since answering that first call, Emily has been a caretaker for 11 Canine Companions female breeder dogs and their 43 litters of puppies.
Ian Ziering
Ian is best known for his role as “Steve Sanders” on Beverly Hills, 90210 which aired from 1990 to 2000. More recently, he portrayed “Fin” in the 2013 movie Sharknado.
Jack Hanna
His enthusiasm and “hands-on” approach to wildlife conservation has won him widespread acclaim as a conservationist, television personality, author and Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and the Wilds.
Jean Schulz, National Board Member, Board Chair Emeritus
Former President and Secretary of the Board Jean Schulz became involved with Canine Companions for Independence in 1986. Her late husband, renowned cartoonist Charles Schulz, thought the dogs ‘marvelous,’ and so did Jean.
Jon Provost
Most famously known for portraying “Timmy” on the iconic 1950s and 60s television show, Lassie, Jon Provost has always held animals close to his heart.
John Wm. Hopen, National Board Member
John Hopen is a retired corporate jet captain and lives in Sebastopol, California. He currently enjoys his hobbies of woodworking, cars, flying, golf, fishing, and travel. Of particular interest to John is music and music production.
John Miller, National Board Member
John Miller was first introduced to Canine Companions by Jean Schulz in 1998. John became more deeply involved when Jean asked him to serve on the Northeast regional board when he moved back to New York.